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Detective Senior Sergeant Alexander, who is in charge of the police investigation in the aggravated burglary, commended the woman for doing the right thing.

"I will be ensuring that she is visited by police officers and thanked personally for the brave decision that she made, which undoubtedly startled these offenders and possibly prevented further offending," he said.

Shortly after she walked over to the man's house to investigate the three men ran out of the house. Two were armed with knives, Alexander said.

They fled in a stolen red 2010 Nissan Juke with the registration KFH463.

Peverill Cres where a senior citizen was beaten in his own home by three disguised attackers. Photo / Brett Phibbs

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The elderly man was taken to Middlemore Hospital as a precaution. He was discharged on Sunday. Victim Support are supporting him as he recovers.

Police found the stolen car abandoned on Hilda Ave, Mangere, on Sunday.

Alexander said the officers investigating the incident were taking it very seriously.

"This was an absolutely horrendous crime by these three offenders who have targeted a vulnerable elderly man in his own home. Papatoetoe is a great community and will be as equally disgusted as police are with this type of offending."

Investigators are making inquiries and will be dropping leaflets appealing for more information in residents' letterboxes near where the vehicle was found.

Alexander asked anyone who had seen the stolen car between 6am on Saturday February 25 and about 2am the next day to contact the Counties Manukau Crime Squad on 09 261 1321, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police also wanted to hear from anyone else with information that may be relevant.